We’re wrapping up Rock the Block Season 5, and it has been an adventure! For those who haven’t been tuning in, Bryan and I have been competing alongside 3 other teams of talented designers to transform identical properties into stunning dream homes. Tonight is the finale…who’s tuning in?!
This season, Bryan and I embraced the challenge head-on with our signature style — Natural Zen. Inspired by the tranquility of nature and the balance of Zen principles, our goal was to create a home that seamlessly blends modern elegance with elements of nature. Serene colour palettes, organic textures, and minimalist yet impactful design choices that evoke a sense of calmness and relaxation.
The Design Process:
This design process has been one of my favourites to date; utilizing a theme that speaks to my personal taste. We carefully curated materials, selected thoughtful décor pieces, and infused our spaces with my personal design philosophy. We wanted to create a home that not only looks beautiful but also feels like a retreat —a place where homeowners can escape the chaos of the outside world and find solace in a serene and inviting environment.
Challenges and Triumphs:
Of course, no design competition is without its challenges. From tight deadlines to unexpected design dilemmas, Bryan and I navigated these obstacles with creativity, teamwork, and a shared passion for enjoying the journey and not just the destination. Each challenge was an opportunity to push our boundaries, think outside the box, and showcase our design expertise (with some laughter & wine along the way!)
The Natural Zen Aesthetic:
Our Natural Zen theme is all about embracing the beauty of simplicity and the power of nature-inspired design. We incorporated elements like natural wood finishes, soothing earth tones, raw travertine and lush greenery to bring a sense of serenity and balance to our spaces. The result? A blend of modern sophistication and quiet calmness that speak to our appreciation for understated luxury.
Featured Items from the Sarah Baeumler Shop:
As part of our Natural Zen theme, we carefully integrated some of my favourite pieces from the Sarah Baeumler Shop to enhance the ambiance of our renovated spaces. The Duck Jar, with its minimalist design, brings a functional and stylish touch to the room, serving as the ideal accent in our living room. Additionally, the Sphere Bubble Vase features a distinctive silhouette that is practical while also being a captivating piece of art in our newly renovated kitchen. Our home wouldn’t be complete without some SB Shop linens, making use of the Kyoto Bath Collection and Mercer Towels to add a layer of comfort and elegance to each space.
Join Us on the Journey:
If you haven’t already, I invite you to join us on this exciting adventure as we Rock the Block with our Natural Zen theme. Tune in tonight at 9 PM EST for the finale. For more design insights, renovation tips and plenty of stunning transformations, visit HGTV to stream Season 5 in its entirety!
Check out our home collection to shop more pieces from Rock the Block.